ISRI (Ilocos Sur Region I)

Okay, it was from a joke that an office colleague cracked (instead of INRI if place pertains to Ilocos Norte). We have been going to Ilocos region several times, especially when SW was still a child. Last summer ( a week prior to Holy Week), HS, SW and HP all went to Ilocos Sur to attend the wake of a relative. We stayed in a low budget hotel in Vigan called GREEN R Hotel . Basic amenities were provided ...no hot shower though, but who needs hot water in a hot summer.The hotel is located near the Vigan Public Market and close to the Heritage Village, banks, supermarkets and bus station. We parked just across the street.

sunrise seen from the window of Green R Hotel

 

Parking area

Upon waking up, we went to my relative's wake in Sto Domingo Ilocos Sur. We  headed to Poro  Beach in Magsingal. Poro used to be the "bagsakan" of goods that they call "chop-chop" . Back then (when SW and HS were in highschool) a scooter costs less than 5,000 pesos. But the local government became more strict as this illegal industry hurt the economy. Apart from this infamous reputation of the place, the beach is a refreshing sight. Water at the grey sand area was clean and with just the right temperature. The last time SW came here was 10 years ago. Other than the paved road, nothing much changed.
We came to a spot where water from north meets water from the south during typhoon season.We stayed for a while and HP dipped with his Lolo.

HP poses with Lolo. Behind them is the water coming from North.

Staying in a makeshift shelter. Beyond that sand dune where the black truck is, is the water from South.

North water

After getting a dip, we headed back to Vigan to explore the Heritage Village in the middle of the day. It was not crowded. We had lunch and took a "calesa" going back to Green R.

Not crowded.

Waking up from our afternoon nap, we decided to go to Mindoro Beach where the La Playa de Oro is. To get to Mindoro Beach, one must head to the road going to Vigan Airport. We arrived at sunset and the smell of the sea and magnificent sunset greeted us. It was one of the most dramatic sunsets we have seen. The black sand added drama to the orange and grey hues.

HP eager to test the water.

Lovely sunset

who wouldn't want to stay here

 As it was getting dark, we decided to go back to Vigan. HS couldn't stop himself from taking countless photos until his camera ran out of batteries.

Back to Vigan, emapana is waiting. Yum!

empanada from the plaza is Php35 a piece. Perfect with a cold soda

Our night was capped with an amazing fountain show!